New Years Resolutions By Haylee Shaffer
The ancient Babylonians started this practice, making promises to their gods at the start of each year hoping to earn favor and to ensure a bountiful harvest. These weren’t usual or casual promises; they were tied deeply to their spiritual beliefs. Later, the romans continued this custom by making promises to the god Janus, who January is named from, seeking forgiveness for past misdeeds and promising good behavior in the next New Year.
Over time, the tradition of making New Years Resolutions evolved and took different forms across cultures. In medieval times, knights would renew their commitments to chivalry every year, refreshing their moral and ethical codes. The religious influence grew stronger with the rise of Christianity, where making resolutions became linked onto their spiritual beliefs and self-improvement. The core idea of using the New Year as a time for personal betterment stays strong.
Instead of making a huge list of unclear goals, try to focus on just a few simple goals that are specific and doable. For example, instead of saying “I’m going to get fit,” try to say, “I will walk for 30 minutes a few days out of the week.” This way the set goals are easier and more doable. Also think about why this is the chosen resolution. Knowing why this is the personal resolution can help to stay on track of the goal.
A helpful tip is to find someone with the same New Year resolution. It could be a friend or family member, having someone alongside the journey can provide extra support and motivation. Having the same resolution, celebrating each other’s milestones, and offering encouragement is a great booster to each other when things start to get challenging.
Some people from Lenape Tech have been asked “Do you make any New Years resolutions?” “I do not make any New Year’s resolutions; I don’t like to set myself up for failure” Mrs. Brocious, Culinary instructional assistant commented. So if you are like Mrs. Brocious and avoid resolutions, or if you attempt and fail or succeed at your yearly resolutions the point is inspired with a deep tradition in mind.
